Scarlet Mallow

It is the first blossom to open on the Scarlet Mallow, Hibiscus coccineus, we purchased at the Williamsburg Farmer’s Market in May.

The beautiful, deeply cut foliage drew my attention at the market. Almost lacy, like some Japanese Maple leaves, it appealed to me.

The plant wasn’t even in bud yet, but I knew a native Hibiscus would work in the border. no matter what color the bloom.

So I bought it on impulse and brought it home to the garden.

When the Japanese beetles attacked the Cannas and other Hibiscus, they left this one alone. It’s quietly grown into its spot without drawing too much attention to itself…. until today!

Wow! What a huge, elegant flower!

Native in the deep south, Scarlet Mallow is hardy north to Zone 6b.

It can eventually grow to 8′ high, though it dies back to the ground each winter. The plant is upright and sturdy.

It prefers wet soil, and will even tolerate flooding. No chance of flooding where it is planted in our garden, but it is on the downhill portion of a slope and will catch run off in a heavy rain. Like all Hibiscus, it appreciates full sun.

As a native, this plant will pretty much grow itself. I’ve given it compost and a little Plant Tone thus far. The deer have grazed around it, but have left it untouched.

I hope it is self- fertile and the seeds it produces will sprout. I plan to gather the seeds when they ripen this fall and sow them, hoping for more of these gorgeous plants.

Scarlet Mallow grows near Azalea and Ginger lily. The Ginger Lily will come into bloom soon with huge white flowers.

6 responses to “Scarlet Mallow”

It is a beauty. I caught a neat photo of it back lit this morning by the sun. This is a new one for us, and I’m looking forward to getting to know it. Seeds are ripening now on the Hibiscus Moscheutos. Would you like some? It is hardy to Zone 5. 😉

Good evening!! Scarlet Mallow does grow on the mountain but you sure can find them all over the area. I think everyone must have them in the gardens and yards. They are really easy to grow and reproduce easily. I hope you guys have a great weekend! It is suppose to be beautiful weather and hot!

That is so interesting, Michael. You rarely see them up here in Virginia. Must be gorgeous to have so many of them in bloom there on the mountain. Hope your weekend is a great one, too 😉 Maybe a good weekend for ice cream? Best wishes, WG